Asthma and Allergy > Allergies > Conditions > Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening disease. If anaphylactic shock isn’t treated immediately, it can be fatal.

Anaphylaxis can be caused by many different types of exposures, including antibiotics, other medicines, insect stings, food and latex. Exercise has been associated with anaphylaxis in some cases, especially after eating. Unfortunately, an exact cause of anaphylaxis is not always found.

Symptoms

Anaphylaxis can begin with severe eye or face itching, then quickly progress to more severe symptoms, including: difficulty breathing stomach cramps light-headedness rapid pulse a drop in blood pressure shock loss of consciousness hives facial swelling nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

Treatment

Anaphylaxis can be treated with an injection of epinephrine (adrenaline). Call 911 immediately if you or someone is having symptoms. Lifesaving measures may be needed. Antihistamines and corticosteroids also usually are administered.